Nollywood actress Ruth Kadiri has advised couples against spending excessively on wedding ceremonies, warning that the pressure to meet societal expectations could place a strain on their marriages.
Kadiri said the demands associated with planning elaborate weddings could create emotional and mental stress, questioning why some couples who have maintained happy relationships for years begin to feel anxious about marriage after their wedding ceremonies.
The actress made the remarks in a video shared by Pulse on Sunday, where she encouraged intending couples to focus on building their relationships rather than organising celebrations to impress others.
“I do think that big weddings put pressure on couples. It puts pressure on the marriage itself,” she said.
Kadiri recommended simpler wedding arrangements, suggesting that couples complete the necessary traditional and legal formalities and celebrate with a few family members and close friends.
She also questioned the need for couples to organise several ceremonies, including engagement parties, court weddings, white weddings and traditional weddings, simply because of pressure from society.
According to her, extravagant celebrations can expose couples to unnecessary scrutiny and expectations, adding that the size of a wedding should not be regarded as a measure of the strength or future of a marriage.
Beyond weddings, Kadiri spoke about the broader pressure young people face from parents and extended family members to achieve certain milestones in life.
She particularly highlighted the burden placed on firstborn children, who are often expected to take responsibility for their families and provide financial assistance to relatives.
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The actress maintained that success should not be judged solely by financial status, career progression or the ability to fulfil other people’s expectations.
“Success means different things to different people,” she said, explaining that some people could find fulfilment in simply being present at home with their children and showing them love.
Kadiri urged parents and relatives to give young people the freedom to make decisions about their lives without subjecting them to constant pressure or comparisons.
She added that the expectations placed on individuals in 2026 could prevent them from enjoying life, encouraging Nigerians to prioritise their happiness and peace of mind instead of seeking society’s approval.